Support and coping with a chronic disease on the example of hypertension

Abstract

Background In coping with a chronic disease (hypertension) an essential role is attributed to the sense of coherence (SOC) and social support. The sense of coherence allows an individual to perceive the surrounding world as comprehensible, meaningful and manageable. Through the support received we have a feeling that there is somebody that will help us in difficult situations and that gives us a strength to fight against adversities. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between the level of the sense of coherence and the support received as determinants of coping with a chronic disease.
Material and methods There were examined 100 patients hospitalized on Internal Medicine Unit in Wojewódzki Szpital Zespolony in Elbląg. Measurement of the sense of coherence was assessed using the Antonovsky’s SOC-29 Orientation to Life questionnaire and the support was measured using the Kmiecik-Baran Social Support Scale.
Results There were no differences among the examined population in terms of global SOC and its components. The average level of the global SOC was 141.2. They differed in terms of the components of the support. The average level of the general support totalled 47 points. There were no statistically significant relationships between the investigated variables.
Conclusions The results may influence the preparation of a patient to self-dependent life with the disease. Estimation of support levels may be used as a determinant of prognosis of care for a patient at different stages of a chronic disease.
Arterial Hypertension 2011, vol. 15, no 3, pages 177–183.